Time-dependent changes in suspensions of sucrose powder in saturated sucrose solution

Viscous and pseudoplastic fluids were prepared at 1:2.1, 1:2.3 and 1:2.5 proportions of saturated aqueous sucrose solution to sucrose powder. These specimens gradually became more solid-like upon storage for two weeks in closed containers. Scanning electron microscopy revealed time-dependent changes in microstructure accompanying the redistribution of sucrose molecules in these specimens. These changes included: (1) an increased particle size from approximately 5–25 μm, (2) the appearance of highly faceted, single crystalline particles of sucrose and (3) coarsening and densification of sucrose particle networks. Pronounced changes in textural parameters were observed within 24 h of storage and are likely associated with changes in microstructure accompanying the redistribution of sucrose in the specimens.